Senator Lionell Spruill, Sr. was born and raised in South Norfolk, Virginia, (now Chesapeake), graduated from G.W. Carver High School and attended Norfolk State University, where he received a Doctor of Laws Degree, and retired from Bell Atlantic Telephone Company, (now Verizon). He is a life long member and Trustee of St. Joseph AME Zion Church, and is a Most Worshipful Past Grand Master of Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Virginia.

Lionell Spruill, Sr. began his public service as a community activist and was appointed to Chesapeake Planning Commission where he served as Chairman before running for Chesapeake City Council, where he served until his election to the 77th House District of the Virginia General Assembly. He was elected to the Virginia Senate in 2016.

Spruill, Sr. is a member of the 2010 Governors Inaugural Committee. He is also elected from Virginia to serve as a member of the Democratic National Committee.

Senator Spruill, Sr. is proud of his public service and of his family of three sons, one daughter, and five grandchildren.